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miniAPP

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This initiative is focused on nurturing a MiniApp ecosystem in Europe and beyond through multi-party, meritocratic and transparent collaboration. MiniApp is a new paradigm of light hybrid applications described within standards being fostered within the W3C. Typically, MiniApps do not require installation, and enable quick and easy access.

For users, MiniApps enable an "in the moment" app dynamic, whilst delivering a near native app experience.

For developers, MiniApps require less coding, and provide the possibility to distribute outside of traditional app stores.

For business, MiniApps provides a powerful dynamic for generating new user experiences and capturing new customers.

liberating for users - democratising for developers - empowering for business.

Digging deeper

MiniApp technology is based on the front-end Web technology stack (i.e., CSS, JavaScript and Web APIs), and can also offer advanced access to device features and supports native rendering. There are several implementations of MiniApps, from Quick Apps, to Alipay Mini Programs, Baidu Smart Mini Programs and more.

Looking at Quick Apps we see that they facilitate the process of development through advanced UI components and predefined native APIs (e.g., push notifications, network monitoring, Bluetooth, or camera) that require typically 20% less lines of code than equivalent native app functions. Furthermore, aligned with emerging MiniApp standards, Quick Apps support multi-channel distribution using deep links, marketplaces, web-links, and specific device assistants.

MAI aims

The OW2 MiniApp initiative aims to foster emerging W3C MiniApp standards for light applications in native environments for smart devices.

The initiative explores vertical applications where MiniApps have the potential to be part of a solution, as well as transversal activities that further core technologies across verticals, including (as appropriate) usability, accessibility, sustainability, privacy, security, and ethical standards.

The initiative has four key aims:

  1. Raise awareness and understanding about MiniApps in business and developer communities.
  2. Develop a commons of technical knowledge, guidelines, and best practices.
  3. Feed into emerging W3C MiniApp standards (and act as a dissemination channel).
  4. Develop Open Source code about MiniApps. For example, tools, code templates, plugins for IDEs, test-beds, Etc.

MAI launch participants

QAI was launched during in June 2021 by the following organisations:

MAI open to all

  • Any organization or individual regardless of geographic location;
  • Operating system and device vendors that implement MiniApp engines, marketplaces, and other supporting tools for MiniApps;
  • Content and service providers interested in end-user interactions using MiniApps;
  • Marketing experts interested in the promotion of MiniApps as a paradigm;
  • Developers, including professionals, hobbyists, and students, interested in Web and native app technologies;
  • Public institutions, including municipalities, with specific needs such as accessible services for citizens and visitors;
  • Research centers and academic institutions interested in innovation through agile technologies;
  • Innovative entrepreneurs and SMEs.
  • ...

To become a participant of the initiative please register now.

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